Choma Central Member of Parliament, Cornelius Mweetwa has dismissed social media speculation that his exclusion from the new Cabinet and that of other former ministers is due to political misalignment or working with the opposition. Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr…

Choma Central Member of Parliament, Cornelius Mweetwa has dismissed social media speculation that his exclusion from the new Cabinet and that of other former ministers is due to political misalignment or working with the opposition.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr Mweetwa, who is also a UPND National Management member, said his non-inclusion alongside other former ministers is a normal exercise of presidential prerogative.

The Choma Central law – maker, who served as Minister of Information and Media in the 2021-2026 administration, expressed gratitude for his five years of service.

He emphasised that under Articles 173 and 259 of the Republican Constitution, the President has the exclusive power to determine Cabinet composition based on national interest, regional balance, ethnicity and gender.

“The President has absolute jurisdiction regarding appointment or termination of any individual within his administration. No individual has an inherent right to a Cabinet position and all Members of Parliament are considered equal,” he said.

ZANIS reports that Mr Mweetwa explicitly refuted claims that he was dropped for working with a former UPND MP or the opposition, explaining that a new term following a general election necessitates a fresh team with new skill sets and energy rather than a direct carryover from the previous administration.

He noted that there are about 237 Members of Parliament available to serve, adding that no one can therefore claim entitlement to appointment.

The parliamentarian reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND, describing himself as a disciple of the President with whom he shares a history of political struggle.

Mr Mweetwa said he is not personally disturbed by being left out and will continue to serve as MP for Choma Central, as a national management member of the party and as a patriotic citizen.

He further pledged full support for President Hichilema’s “Grow Zambia Agenda” aimed at economic growth and improved livelihoods.

Mweetwa also urged fellow UPND members, to guard against propaganda intended to cause disunity within the party and government and to remain steadfast against opposition attempts to sow division

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